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($1,170) Cost to Move From McAllen, TX to San Diego, CA

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Estimated cost & time: For a 1,515 mile move from McAllen to San Diego, costs typically range from $924 to $6,512. Plan for the travel time to be around four–15 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from McAllen to San Diego

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from McAllen to San Diego

If you want to simplify your interstate move from McAllen to San Diego, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 5 interstate moving companies located in McAllen, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to San Diego seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from McAllen to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,515-mile move from McAllen to San Diego using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,258 – $4,817
  • Moving Container $1,295 – $2,504
  • Rental Truck $854 – $1,740
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,838 – $6,512
  • Moving Container $1,848 – $3,678
  • Rental Truck $924 – $1,968
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,450 – $8,900
  • Moving Container $2,299 – $4,672
  • Rental Truck $1,236 – $2,505
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Allied Van Lines
Camargito, TX Winter Gardens, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 16, 2025
Roadway Moving
La Joya, TX El Cajon, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Olivia Lopez de Gutierrez, TX Vista, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
BLVD Moving
Progreso Lakes, TX Bostonia, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Alto Bonito Heights, TX Santee, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
East Alto Bonito, TX Poway, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Donna, TX Ramona, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
La Villa, TX Hillcrest, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
PODS
Ramirez-Perez, TX National City, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 28, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Mission, TX Imperial Beach, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Diego, CA to McAllen, TX guide.

The best local movers for McAllen to San Diego moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in McAllen that also handles long-distance moves to San Diego. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated seven local movers in McAllen who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from McAllen to San Diego.

  1. Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  2. Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc.: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  3. Groves Moving and Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
  4. Bellhop Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Flex Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
70.0% of all reviews were positive
30.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word on the street is Rick’s Moving & Storage LLC gets high praise for efficiency, professionalism, and careful handling, with 70% of customer input leaving 5-star feedback. Most clients noticed a quick process, thoughtful movers, and recommended the team for hassle-free service. A handful of customers appreciated detailed organization and responsive communication, setting this business ahead of larger chains in terms of personal attention. On the downside, 30% of the reviews voice serious issues such as item loss, theft, mishandling, and storage complaints. These negative experiences often focus on damaged or missing property and problems with safe storage conditions. Aside from strong points, prospective customers should be aware of these reported risks before choosing this mover.
Get a Quote (956) 631-5764

Company Info

State license #: 009769916C

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1082164

Alternate Names: Rick’s Moving and Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.0% of all reviews were positive
19.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for Jones Moving & Storage Co., Inc. shines a spotlight on their standout professionalism and courteous staff. Out of 42 customer inputs, 81% express satisfaction, noting respectful employees, careful handling, open communication, efficiency, and affordable service. People often mention movers being prompt, effective, and polite, frequently exceeding expectations. On the flip side, a smaller portion describes interactions with unfriendly representatives, missed communication, and surprise costs. Most complaints center around rude behavior and lack of responsiveness. While most moving companies struggle with frequent damages or big delays, Jones Moving & Storage receives much more praise for their professional approach and careful handling than most in the industry.
Get a Quote (800) 684-3894

Company Info

State license #: 0000006770

Years in Business: 86

DOT #: 125563

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
69.0% of all reviews were positive
31.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Groves Moving and Storage earns consistent praise for its efficient service, punctual and polite staff, and a fast moving process. Many customers describe team members as helpful and knowledgeable, especially during appliance installations and deliveries. Positive feedback outnumbers negative, with 69% of reviews highlighting great communication, courteous crews, and quick turnaround. In contrast, dissatisfied customers report rude interactions, damaged items, and a lack of clear responses when issues arise. Compared to industry competitors, Groves excels at friendliness and promptness, while improvement is needed in handling complaints and ensuring damages are addressed professionally. A total of 29 reviews inform these patterns, with over two-thirds reflecting a positive customer experience.
Get a Quote (956) 423-1000

Company Info

State license #: 005443977C

Years in Business: 26

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving impresses with speedy, attentive service and a team of polite professionals. Most customer feedback highlights their efficiency, prompt communication, and the attentive care movers show with belongings. Over 81% of the 32 reviews express satisfaction, noting a stress-free process and careful handling of property. Many appreciate the staff’s professionalism and their ability to accommodate last-minute requests, setting Bellhop apart from typical moving companies. Nonetheless, about 16% of feedback mention frustration when crews arrive unprepared, lack proper equipment, or do not follow customer instructions, sometimes leading to damaged items. A few reviews also describe gaps in communication or unresolved complaints. In comparison to local competitors, Bellhop stands out for its consistently courteous staff but needs to address occasional lapses in preparedness and coordination to maintain a strong reputation.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 009668291C

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.4% of all reviews were positive
8.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Flex Moving & Storage for efficient service, professional and friendly movers, quick moving processes, careful handling, and helpful attitudes. Out of 70 reviews analyzed, a strong 91% reflected positive experiences. Many praised the respectful and skilled crews who made moving stress-free with their timeliness and attention to fragile items, outpacing competitors in reliability. Some feedback highlighted problems, with 6 reviewers (just under 9%) citing incidents such as property damage, unexpected and unauthorized charges, or poor communication around billing and security. Several customers experienced unresolved or challenging claims relating to damages or hidden fees. While the majority benefited from a smooth, trustworthy service, a handful of customers expressed disappointment due to mishandling of belongings or billing disputes. Flex Moving & Storage earns a higher-than-average satisfaction rate compared to many moving firms, yet potential clients should stay vigilant for possible extra charges and ensure clear communication about services and costs.
Get a Quote (786) 738-9516

Company Info

Years in Business: 2

DOT #: 3610638

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from McAllen to San Diego?

The average hourly rate for movers in Texas is $131. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,170 – $4,772 $1,015 – $2,423 $926 – $1,654
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,838 – $6,512 $1,848 – $3,678 $924 – $1,968
4+ bedrooms $5,450 – $8,900 $2,299 – $4,672 $1,236 – $2,505
*Approximate cost ranges for a 1,515-mile move from McAllen to San Diego are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from McAllen to San Diego

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from McAllen to San Diego will cost between $1,170 and $4,772. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from McAllen to McAllen will range from $2,838 to $6,512, and a large move from McAllen to San Diego will cost from $5,450 to $8,900.

Cost of moving containers from McAllen to San Diego

If you’re moving from McAllen to San Diego, expect to pay between $1,015 and $2,423 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,848 up to $3,678. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,299 and $4,672. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from McAllen to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from McAllen to San Diego is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $926 and $1,654. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $924 and $1,968. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,236 up to $2,505 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from McAllen to San Diego

The cost of McAllen movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,394, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $8,928.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in McAllen, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($926–$2,379) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from McAllen to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 130% higher for singles and 117% higher for families than McAllen.

Singles spend around $3,346 in McAllen versus $1,457 in McAllen; families pay $7,719 compared with $3,557.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

McAllen San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $813 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $1,360 $4,914
Average home value $221,244 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $57,439 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $1,457 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $3,557 $7,719
Unemployment rate 7.9% 6.6%
Sales tax 8.25% 7.75%
State income tax 0.0% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 113% higher in San Diego compared to McAllen; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 354% greater in San Diego than in McAllen.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 27% higher in San Diego than in McAllen, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Diego, since the cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 130% higher than in McAllen. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to San Diego, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in San Diego is 117% greater than in McAllen.
  • San Diego enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 16% lower compared to McAllen, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes drop 6% in San Diego compared to McAllen, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between McAllen and San Diego:

Living Expense McAllen San Diego
Basic utilities $169.85 $277.55
Cell phone plan $39.43 $66.79
Dozen eggs $3.23 $5.26
Loaf of bread $2.95 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $12.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.50 $100.00
Gym membership $45.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in McAllen than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in McAllen than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in McAllen than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in McAllen than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in McAllen than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in McAllen than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in McAllen than in San Diego.

How life is different in McAllen vs. San Diego

McAllen San Diego
Population 142,210 1,386,932
Transportation score 3 6
Walkability score 41 53
Bike friendliness score 46 43
Crime index 36.26 39.83
Safety index 63.74 60.17
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 875% greater than McAllen.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than McAllen’s score of 3.
  • San Diego is more walkable than McAllen with a score of 53 out of 100 vs McAllen’s 41 out of 100.
  • San Diego has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as McAllen, which has a score of 46.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is higher than McAllen with a score of 39.83 compared to McAllen’s 36.26. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and McAllen neighborhoods are safer than 36.26%.
  • San Diego is considered to be less safe than McAllen with a score of 60.17 vs McAllen’s 63.74.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in McAllen it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your McAllen to San Diego move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to San Diego. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in San Diego

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s Finest City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in San Diego.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Gaslamp Quarter
  • Hillcrest
  • North Park
  • Ocean Beach
  • Pacific Beach

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Carmel Valley
  • Del Mar Heights
  • Loma Portal
  • Rancho Bernardo
  • Rancho Penasquitos

Things to do in San Diego

Once you’re settled into your new home in California, it’s time to get out and discover what San Diego has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Diego, such as the USS Midway Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and San Diego Air & Space Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park, La Jolla Shores Park, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an San Diego Padres (MLB)San Diego Gulls (AHL)San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from McAllen to San Diego?

The best time to move from McAllen to San Diego is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in McAllen.

When is the cheapest time to move from McAllen to San Diego?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from McAllen to San Diego, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from McAllen to San Diego take?

Moving from McAllen, TX to San Diego, covers 1,515 miles and usually takes four to 15 days. Need to move faster? Some McAllen movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Diego.

Who can move pianos or antiques in McAllen?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 5 movers in McAllen advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in McAllen provide antique moving services. State totals show 180 piano movers and 125 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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